Is Popcorn Inflammatory? The Connection You May Not Know In [UK] 2023

Popcorn is a snack enjoyed by many, whether you’re watching TV or cheering in a crowd at a stadium. While generally considered a healthy snack option, there have been some concerns about whether popcorn causes inflammation. So, is popcorn inflammatory?

Potentially. But it depends on the popcorn type and how it is prepared. So before you swear off eating popcorn for good, it’s essential to understand what type of popcorn causes inflammation and how to avoid it.

Here’s everything you need to know about the relationship between popcorn and inflammation and how to minimize these effects.

Is Popcorn An Inflammatory Food?

Before determining if popcorn is an inflammatory food, let’s first define inflammation and look at the types of food and ingredients known to cause it.

Inflammation^[1] is the body’s immune response to injury or illness. While it is typically thought of negatively, small amounts of inflammation are necessary for the body to heal.^[2] Under normal circumstances, the inflammation resolves once the body is healed.

However, with chronic inflammation,^[2] the inflammatory process often begins without injury and doesn’t end as it should. This can lead to chronic diseases^[1] such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, non-alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune disorders, and depression.

Among the causes of chronic inflammation, stress and diet play a critical role. For example, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants have been linked to a decrease in markers of inflammation.^[3] In contrast, high amounts of processed foods with saturated fat, sodium, added sugar,^[4] and trans fats^[5] have been linked to inflammation.

With that said, popcorn itself, with its high content of fiber and antioxidants, is unlikely to cause inflammation. However, not all popcorn is created equal.

When Can Popcorn Cause Inflammation?

Some types of popcorn may lead to inflammation and should not be included in an anti-inflammatory meal plan. For example, many popular methods of preparing popcorn involve using pro-inflammatory ingredients. These may include oils, butter, salt, and other additives.

Oils high in omega-6 fatty acids are linked to chronic inflammation.^[6] Examples of these inflammatory oils include soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil. Butter^[7] has a high saturated fat content and is also associated with inflammation.

Microwave popcorn, in particular, tends to be high in saturated fat and sodium, which are common culprits of inflammation. Furthermore, some popcorn varieties, such as kettle corn, contain added sugar or even artificial sweeteners,^[8] which have been linked to inflammation.

Use a hot air popper to make your own popcorn at home without oils or flavorings. You can also cook it over the stove using healthy oils like extra virgin olive and avocado.

Who Should Avoid Popcorn?

Popcorn is not recommended for children under the age of four.^[9] Additionally, people with Crohn’s disease,^[10] which causes irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, should also avoid popcorn. Its high fiber content may be difficult to digest, triggering symptoms like diarrhea and cramping.

Benefits Of Popcorn When You Eat It Properly

We know that when eaten in moderation, popcorn alone is unlikely to cause inflammation flare-ups. But is eating popcorn good for reducing inflammation? Is popcorn healthy?

Possibly. Here’s a quick look at the health benefits of popcorn.

Rich In Antioxidants

Antioxidants help protect our cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to inflammation.^[11]

Popcorn is rich in polyphenols,^[12] antioxidants associated with improved digestion and blood circulation. Polyphenols may also reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Because of the antioxidant properties of polyphenols, studies suggest they may be promising for preventing and reducing inflammation^[13] in the body. To increase its inflammation-fighting potential and add flavor variety, consider topping popcorn with other anti-inflammatory ingredients. These toppings may include black pepper, dark chocolate chips, turmeric, oregano, rosemary, or cinnamon.

Good Source Of Whole Grains And Fiber

Popcorn is 100% whole grain^[14] by weight when eaten plain and air-popped. Whole grains provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients that can reduce the risk of chronic disease.

Fiber,^[15] in particular, is important for blood sugar control, digestive health, and weight management. It can also reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Adults should aim to consume 22 to 34 grams^[15] of fiber each day. The specific amount you need will depend on your sex and age.  A three-cup serving^[16] of air-popped popcorn provides around 15% of the fiber most healthy adults need daily.

Weight Loss

When combined with a healthy diet, popcorn may support weight loss. Three cups of plain, air-popped popcorn have around 100 calories.^[17] This makes it a healthy snack option for those on weight loss diets who prefer high-volume snacks.

High-fiber foods like popcorn can increase satiety^[12] more than sweets and fatty foods with the same calorie content. This filling snack can help reduce the total amount of calories you eat in a day, leading to weight loss.

Anti-Inflammatory Snacks For You

In addition to plain popcorn, here is a list of nutritious foods with the highest amounts of anti-inflammatory compounds:^[18]

• Berries.
• Dark chocolate.
• Sweet potatoes.
• Raw carrots.
• Veggies and bean dip.
• Black olives.
• Plums.
• Anti-inflammatory greens juice.
• Pomegranate juice.
• Pecans and other nuts.
• Grapes.
• Whole grain toast with nut butter or avocado.

You can also take anti-inflammatory supplements, which may help reduce inflammation and inflammation-related pain.

Inflammatory Snacks To Avoid

The following foods and snacks^[5] have the potential to promote inflammation in some individuals:

• Processed meats, such as sausage, deli meat, and bacon.
• Refined carbs, such as white bread, cereals, and chips.
• Grain-fed red meat, like hamburgers or steak.
• Fatty cuts of meat, like chicken with the skin on and pork.
• Baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, pies, and brownies.
• Fried foods like french fries, onion rings, and donuts.
• Fruit juice with added sugars.
• Full-fat dairy products like cheese, butter, and cream.
• Frozen pizza.
• High-sugar granola bars.

Final Thought

Many microwaveable and pre-packaged popcorn varieties may trigger inflammation. This is primarily because they are high in sodium, saturated fat, and other additives.

However, consuming plain, air-popped popcorn alone is unlikely to cause inflammation. In fact, popcorn contains antioxidants, fiber, and other good-for-you nutrients that may help prevent inflammation and improve your health.

Drizzle plain popcorn with olive oil and top it with pepper, turmeric, rosemary, or oregano to increase its anti-inflammatory power. And if you have questions about popcorn and your individualized nutrition needs, consider meeting with your registered dietitian nutritionist.

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